Spending one-on-one time with your better half doesn’t have to cost the earth. Discover fun and romantic date ideas with Parkdean Resorts. Whether you’re heading on a cheap last minute staycation or just looking to stay local to your hometown, here are some of our favourite free and cheap days out for couples in the UK. Read on to learn more.
Free days out for couples
Walking and hiking
If you both enjoy walking and exploring the wilderness or countryside, you’ll know spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature, can be a real bonding experience. What’s more, excluding parking fees, it's a completely free day out too - providing that you bring your own snacks and refreshments. But there's always the option to stop at the local pub afterwards should you fancy a treat! Check out our recommendations for top romantic walks here.
If you’re new to walking and hiking, it’s a great hobby to take up - and it’s well suited to enjoying as a couple. From planning your next trip away and researching local walks, to motivating eachother to keep going on more challenging hikes and trails - it’s a great way to keep fit while providing a focus to your quality time spent together.
Head to the Beach
Spring mornings, summer afternoons, crisp autumnal days and bracing winter weather all call for a trip to the beach, the perfect year-round activity. Whether you’re strolling along the sand, exploring the rockpools or simply taking in the view with a flask of warming tea - there’s always something to do at the seaside.
The fresh air and calming sounds of the waves create the perfect atmosphere for together time. Or if you want to shake things up, why not go for a quick dip? However you choose to spend you romantic day at the beach, it’s about spending time together, doing something you both enjoy.
If you’re looking for a couples beachside getaway, check out our range of the UK's best beachside holiday parks.
Visit your local art gallery
If you’re an art enthusiast or simply want to get out of the house on a rainy day, a trip to an art gallery is an often overlooked day out. Soaking up some culture together can actually make for quite an interesting and romantic date. Whether you’re admiring the intricate paintstrokes or laughing at the so-called ‘sculptures’, at least you’re doing it together!
Most art galleries in major cities and town are completely free of charge to enter - with the exception of special exhibitions - so keep your eye on your local council website to find your nearest free gallery.
While it’s only free to members, The Tate in St Ives is well worth a visit for art lovers staying at our holiday parks in Cornwall. Here you can explore contemporary works in all media, while supporting the local art scene.
Go stargazing
Stargazing and romance, surely not? While this one might sound a little cliche, stargazing is a surprisingly fun and educational activity - with plenty of free and affordable resources available to get you started - including information online and free VR apps to help you identify the stars above.
The UK is home to a number of fantastic designated Dark Sky park locations, where, even without a telescope you’ll be able to spot lots of vibrant and interesting constellations. So next time you’re having a restless night, why not head out for a date in the dark?
The South Downs National Park is renowned for its picturesque rolling countryside and stunning coastal walks at Seven Sisters, and is a must visit if you are staying at one of our Cornwall holiday parks.
The North York Moors is also a famous hot spot for stargazing - and for good reason too. Thanks to the low level of light pollution, the further north you are and the darker the sky, the more likely you are to witness the northern lights. This is a must-see free activity to do when staying at one of our holiday parks in Yorkshire.
Cheap days out for couples
Luna Outdoor Cinema
If you enjoy going to the cinema, why not level up date night with an evening under the stars at the Luna Cinema? Pack your foldable chairs, picnic blanket and jumpers and snuggle up for a romantic screening outdoors. Prices vary by screening, with many tickets available from under £20 per person. Plus, you can even bring your own snacks and non-alcholic drinks too, making it great value for a unique evening out.
From family favourites like Harry Potter to romance classics like Pretty Woman, as well as new releases and action-packed blockbusters - Luna’s ever-changing schedule of films is sure to please even the biggest film buffs.
You’ll find Luna outdoor cinema events at iconic and historic sites across the country, ranging from Kew Gardens to Alnwick Castle. Check out their website to find your nearest event and book tickets online.
Visit a castle
What’s could be more romantic than a castle? The setting for many a fairy tale, the UK is spoiled for choice when it comes to these historic ramparts and fortifications, with incredible castles open to visitors across all four corners of Britain.
We’ve picked out some of our favourites below, which are sure to be a hit if your partner is a history aficionado, or you just fancy a romantic meander around the grounds. Rich in history and things to see and do, a castle visit offers great value for money.
Tintagel Castle, Cornwall
- Price: Entry prices vary by time of year. For the best deal, visit on an off-peak date, with adult tickets starting from just £14.50
Known as the birthplace of King Arthur, the castle of Tintagel, located on the North Cornwall coast, is the perfect couples day out for history lovers. What’s more, the rocky beach location makes for a romantic walk afterwards. Tintagel’s spectacular backdrop is an ideal selfie spot, too.
It's a must-visit when holidaying at St Minver Holiday Park!
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
- Price: Adult tickets are £19.50 and include access to the castle and grounds as well as various events and activities
Alnwick Castle is famed as a filming location, most notably from the iconic Harry Potter series, and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the UK. Here you can spend a romantic day out exploring the ground’s 950 years of history and enjoying the ever-changing events and activities on offer.
If you’re staying at one of our holiday parks in Northumberland, a visit to Alnwick Castle is a must for any couple’s break.
Dunster Castle, Somerset
- Price: Entry is free for National Trust members, giving you access to 100s of attractions across the UK. If you’re not a member, adult tickets are £16
Situated at the top of the hills, Dunster Castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Bristol Channel. While you’re there, be sure to have a romantic stroll through the gardens where you can admire the pretty rose bushes, green fields and ancient bridges.
Dunster Castle is a great place to break your journey if you’re heading to Ruda Holiday Park in Devon.
Great value couples’ breaks
If you’re looking to go a step further than a day out, why not check out our couples’ breaks? With a wide range of accommodation available to suit all prices points, and short breaks from just 2 night stays - it’s a great way to enjoy a romantic holiday for less.
All of our accommodation comes equipped with self catering facilities, so you can enjoy a preparing homecooked meals and save on dining out. It’s also a great way to save money when you’re out and about, by preparing a picnic or sandwiches to take with you.
When you book direct with Parkdean Resorts, you’ll recieve Hub Passes when you arrive, included in the cost of your holiday. These give you access to all the communal facilities and entertainment on park, from swimming pools to evening events and shows. Some of our parks even feature a steam room and sauna, offering a great way to pamper yourselves and unwind.
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